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Capoeira is unique style of dance, a martial art combined with acrobatic movements and music, an elegant yet physically powerful form of body expression that began 500 years ago during Brazil 's slavery era. As the slaves in Brazil began to revolt, tribes who were once strangers or enemies in Africa suddenly found themselves united to fight for a common goal. New communities were formed as people shared and learned from each other's cultures, rituals, and traditions. Capoeira was born through a synergy of these energies, ideas, and through a shared hope for a brighter day. This form of celebration through dance became a symbol of unity, and essentially became their weapon; their symbol of freedom.
To train Capoeira, to be a true capoeirista, you must immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of Brazil ; Capoeira Brasil San Diego is dedicated to giving each of its students the knowledge they need to be well respected in the Capoeira community. This involves not only being able to play Capoeira itself, but also play all three of its instruments and sing traditional Capoeira songs. World-renowned teacher, Contra-Mestre Mindinho (Raphael Cunha), along with his student Penelope Charmosa (Molly O'Hagan), dedicate their lives to maintaining the traditions and promoting the evolution of Capoeira.
The main focus of "Capoeira Kids" is to develop the student's body movements through educational games that train kicks, escapes and acrobatics. Additionally, children work with the development of body expression. These movements give children an increase in overall strength, endurance, agility, flexibility, coordination and balance. Further, they are able to learn the aspects of the martial art component while simultaneously adding Capoeira's philosophy and discipline.
One of the unique aspects of Capoeira Kids is the development of musical awareness and rhythm through the use of Capoeira instruments (how to both use and make them and their historical significance) and cultivation of each student's musical ability. The four main instruments of Capoeira--the berimbau, atabaque (drum), pandeiro (tambourine), and the agogo--allow children to work together as a group, gaining general music skills. For children having a more difficult time with the physical movements in capoeira, music tends to be a very important aspect; the music component allows them their place to gain self-confidence in the group, further motivating them to continue on their path in Capoeira.
The "Roda de Capoeira," or Capoeira circle, is a place where many levels of human relationship are present. Because of this, students develop a kind of behavior in the roda, respecting the existing rules, and as a result become successful members within their group.
Click on a photo below to open a larger version
| Mindinho at Camp Castillo |
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| Mindinho at Camp Leon |
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